After the majority of the public commented in its favor last summer, the long-awaited plan to expand the Gulf of the Farallones and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuaries has cleared one of its last hurdles.

This weekend IFAW will be joining with dozens of other charities, whale watch operators and general whale enthusiasts to celebrate all things whale related as part of the fourth annual Whalefest event in Brighton (March 14 and 15).

Around 10,000 visitors of all ages are expected to converge by the seaside to find out more about these gentle giants of the sea, how to protect them from the many threats they face and where to enjoy seeing them in the wild.